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Trainee Animal Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Van Andel Institute

Postdoctoral Fellow

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$70K/yr

To study these phenomena we take advantage of the well-established model animal C. elegans to ... Learn more about VAI's dedication to investing in postdoctoral trainees and the recently announced ...

Van Andel Institute

Postdoctoral Fellow

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$70K/yr

To study these phenomena we take advantage of the well-established model animal C. elegans to ... Learn more about VAI's dedication to investing in postdoctoral trainees and the recently announced ...

University of Michigan

RESEARCH FELLOW

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

Conduct in vivo mouse experimentation, including animal handling, epicutaneous sensitization and ... Prior mentoring experience with junior trainees. Modes of Work Positions that are eligible for ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Norton Shores, MI · On-site

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ... Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Norton Shores, MI · On-site

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ... Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ... Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ... Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level ...

All JobsAnimal JobsTrainee Animal JobsTrainee Animal Jobs in Michigan

Trainee Animal information

What is a trainee animal?

A Trainee Animal is typically an animal undergoing training for a specific role, such as assisting people with disabilities, performing in entertainment, or working in law enforcement or rescue operations. These animals are guided by professional trainers to develop specific behaviors, skills, or responses needed for their future jobs. The training process can vary in length and complexity depending on the animal's role and the required tasks. Trainee animals may include dogs, horses, dolphins, or other species, and their progress is closely monitored to ensure they are suitable for their intended work.

What are the typical responsibilities of a trainee animal technician in a research facility?

As a Trainee Animal Technician, your daily tasks typically include feeding and caring for laboratory animals, cleaning and maintaining enclosures, monitoring animal health, and keeping accurate records of procedures and observations. You'll work closely with experienced technicians and researchers, learning proper handling techniques and gaining an understanding of ethical standards in animal care. This role often requires attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and the ability to follow strict protocols to ensure the wellbeing of the animals and the integrity of research projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee animal technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Animal Technician, you need a basic understanding of animal care, attention to detail, and usually a relevant qualification such as an animal care certificate or diploma. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, animal husbandry protocols, and health monitoring systems is typically required. Strong observational skills, reliability, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are valuable soft skills. These competencies are crucial for ensuring animal welfare, maintaining research integrity, and supporting scientific outcomes in laboratory settings.

What is the difference between Trainee Animal vs Animal Care Assistant?

AspectTrainee AnimalAnimal Care Assistant
Required CredentialsOften entry-level, may require basic certifications or noneTypically requires relevant certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentTraining settings, shelters, or clinicsAnimal shelters, zoos, veterinary clinics
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, internships, entry-level rolesFull-time roles in animal care facilities

The main difference is that a Trainee Animal is usually in a learning or internship phase, gaining skills and experience, while an Animal Care Assistant is a more experienced role with specific responsibilities in animal welfare. Trainee Animal positions often serve as stepping stones toward becoming an Animal Care Assistant.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Animal jobs in Michigan are:

Trainee Animal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Animal job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Postdoctoral Fellow

Van Andel Institute

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.
The Van Andel Institute (VAI) is seeking to hire a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Burton Laboratory under the direction of Dr. Nick Burton. This role will present the opportunity to take on a leadership role in managing a research project understanding why people with the same pathological genetic variant sometimes present with only mild disease while others present with severe and sometimes fatal multi-system disease - a phenomena observed over a wide variety of genetic disorders, particularly metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders. In the Burton lab, we propose that many cases of individuals developing only mild pathologies are due to either protective genetic variants elsewhere in their genome (genetic suppression) or due to protective molecules found in an animal's diet or microbiome (environmental suppression). If true, we hypothesize that identifying these molecular mechanisms will lead to new treatments for a wide variety of currently untreatable pathologies. To study these phenomena we take advantage of the well-established model animal C. elegans to generate animal models of human genetic diseases by recreating patient variants in conserved residues using CRISPR. We then perform both high throughput genetic suppressor and diet/microbiome suppressor screens to identify new therapeutic approaches for a wide variety of pathologies.
We are especially interested in candidates with experience in either bacterial genetics or C. elegans biology (particularly mapping suppressor mutations from genetic screens), however, we can train on all aspects of this project and encourage all interested applicants to apply. Interested candidates can also reach out to Dr. Burton (Nick.Burton@vai.org) directly to learn more about the project and opportunities.
What this role will involve:

  • Leadership opportunity managing a research project on how bacteria regulate animal (elegans) physiology.
  • Training available in bacterial genetics and/or C. elegans genetics.
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology with short wait times.
  • Opportunity to work with highly collaborative scientists in the VAI Department of Metabolism and Nutritional Programming, and throughout the Institute.
Qualifications:
  • A Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in biology, molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
  • Bacterial genetics or C. elegans experience is preferred, but not required.
  • A record of peer-reviewed publications is highly desirable.
Why Join Van Andel Institute as a Postdoctoral Fellow? Postdoctoral Fellows are full-time employees and receive a competitive annual salary beginning at $70,000. Learn more about VAI's dedication to investing in postdoctoral trainees and the recently announced salary increase here. Strong internal grants to support the career development of postdoctoral scholars. Along with the competitive salary and extensive professional development opportunities and support, our Postdoctoral Fellows are eligible for VAI Benefits, including:
  • 401 K retirement savings plans with employee/employer contributions
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Employer-sponsored life and AD&D insurance
  • Additional voluntary life and AD&D insurance for employees and dependents
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance
  • Flexible-spending accounts for health and child/elder care
  • Paid vacation, holidays, personal days
  • Relocation Assistance
VAI recognizes that selecting where to complete a postdoctoral fellowship is a significant decision for postdoctoral fellows. VAI's dedicated Office of Postdoctoral Affairs provides a comprehensive professional development program. About Van Andel Institute Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to nearly 500 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute's scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson's and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K-12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology. VAI is committed to excellence through broad participation and diverse perspectives. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences who share our passion for innovation and collaboration. Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer. As Van Andel Institute is a drug free employer, all prospective new employees undergo a urinalysis/drug test as part of our pre-employment process. This is a 7-panel drug screen and it includes testing for Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP, Barbiturates, and Benzodiazepines. About Grand Rapids, MI Van Andel Institute is in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan in the center of the Medical Mile. A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, Grand Rapids is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It's fun affordable and family-friendly. Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.

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